RajjeTV cameraman Zareer found guilty, fined

RajjeTV cameraman Adam Zareer has been found guilty of obstruction and fined MVR 3,000 for the offense.

Criminal Court ruled this Monday that Zareer was found guilty based on video evidence and testimony.

Judge Adam Areef said police officers testified Zareer trespassed into a barricaded area, corresponding with video footage submitted as evidence by the State prosecution – which’s authenticity, the court noted, had not been questioned by Zareer.

He also said that testimony of the three journalists submitted by the defense as evidence was not sufficient enough to negate testimony of the police officers.

After Judge Adam Areef ruled that Zareer was found guilty of the offense, both the prosecution and defense were provided with opportunity to discuss punishment.

Zareer’s attorney, Abdulla Haseen requested for no jail time and the lowest fine, arguing that his client was a responsible member of the society who worked in service to the community and was responsible for the welfare of his family.

Judge Areef fined Zareer with MVR 3,000 and instructed him not to repeat the offense and perform the duties of his post as a cameraman within the boundaries of law.